If you have recently left your property, the tips below can help you stay safe.
Things to consider
- Does your new property have secure windows and doors? If not speak to GDASS or your landlord about making it more secure.
- Avoid places where you are isolated or alone and places you used to go with the perpetrator, at least in the immediate period of separation, if possible.
- Alter your routine as much as you can. Eg alter your working hours, walks home etc.
- If you have any regular appointments that your partner knows about (eg hospital, doctor etc) try to change your appointment time and/or the location of the appointment.
- Try to choose an alternative route or mode of transport when approaching or leaving places you cannot avoid (eg work/schools etc).
- Consider informing your employer or others at your place of work – particularly if you think your partner might try to contact you there.
- Mobile phones can be traced, so try to change your SIM card or even better get a new pay as you go phone.
- Some mobile phones, particularly iPhones, have tracking programmes attached. Please refer to your manual or change your handset if you are not sure whether this could affect your phone.
- If you do wish to telephone your partner, ensure it is from a number withheld phone. Dial ‘141’ before typing the number to withhold it.
- Avoid using shared credit or debit cards because, if your partner sees the statements, it will show where you have been. Your support worker can help you open a new account if you need to.
- Make sure your address does not appear on any court papers. Speak to your solicitor or McKenzie friend about arranging this.
- Talk to your children about the need to keep your whereabouts confidential – especially if they are having contact with the perpetrator.
- Ensure schools have any relevant court orders relating to the children, and a photograph of the perpetrator if they have been told by a court that they are not to have contact.